FR
EE
www.allabroad.es May 2013 issue number 22
advice, features, quizes, puzzles, crosswords, markets, fiestas, what’s on + more!
A YOU A EUROPEAN?
10
Take our fun test to see if you’ve taken on some foreign habits?!
places to visit! FOR UNDER
10€!
Homes. Garden & Lifestyle
Cost of Living Comparison
We’ll be there!
UK - SPAIN
La Finca Golf Hotel, Algorfa 29-30 May
for the locals...by the locals..!
see inside!
Abrimos todos los dias a partir de 18.ooh & los Sabados y Domingos tambien a medio dia We are open every day from 6.00pm and from 12.00pm at weekends
@pizzeriacocoa
r o f e v o /pizzeriacocoa
construction
construcciones
renovations
10 Años GRAN ALACANT 10 Years
reformas
REFORMAS DE ALBAÑILERIA
RENOVATIONS
FONTANERÍA
PLUMBING
ELÉCTRICAD
ELECTRICAL WORK
MAMPARAS DE DUCHA
FLOORING
PUERTAS
BATHROOM SCREENS
VENTANAS
DOORS
ESCAYOLAS
WINDOWS
CERRAMIENTOS DE ALUMINIO
PLASTERING
PINTURA Y DECORACIÓN
ALL SEALED UNITS
MOBILIARIO DE COCINA
PAINTING & DECORATING
MOBILIARIO DE BAÑO
KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
CALENTADORES ELÉCTRICOS
BATHROOM EQUIPMENT
CALENTADORES GAS
ELECTRIC HEATERS
CLARABOLLAS
GAS HEATERS
SKYLIGHTS
96 541 4040
Avda Escandinavia 72 Altomar, 669 Gran Alacant www.refornovasantapola.com
Mobile:
607 361 253
Email: REFORNOVA1@ALOCOM.NET
! in a p S n o e in h S Last month I began my breakfast show on radio and for the first time in about seven years I have to get up in the morning. Not good. However, what is good is there are a surprising number of (alert) people at eight o’clock in the morning, and now I’m one of them! Real Radio began a couple of years ago under the leadership of founder Cliff Roberts and has now grown to become one of the most popular expat stations in the region and worldwide with a huge amount of listeners (many with homes in Spain) living in other countries that are all interested in what is going on in Spain. My thanks go to Diamond Blue, Ruby Tuesdays, Go Satellite, Howells Removals, Coys car hire and Sharon Hulbert of Real Estate Solutions, who have all supported me, and often. Without companies like these and the others that support us we couldn’t give you a free mag and i couldn’t waffle on over the air-waves! Thanks!. Talking of interest in Spain I attended the A Place in the Sun Exhibition at Olympia in April as a guest to talk about life in Spain and I can assure many readers that there is still loads of people looking to make the move from the UK and soon! The estate agents from the Costa Blanca that were represented there all reported, during a fun plane journey home, that they had been busier this year than for a long time. A chat with local removals specialists, Howells Removals on my return told me much the same story with manager Anne telling me that they had more people moving out to Spain than returning to the UK than any time in the last four years! Despite the UK press’s grey image of life in Spain things are moving, jobs are being created; Valencia sold more new cars in the first quarter of this year than it has for the equivalent period in previous years and Alicante saw a DROP in unemployment during the same period – it didn’t get reported in the UK press… The expat press here should take a good hard look at themselves too with doom and gloom on the front page in an effort at sensationalism, while the businesses that rely on people living and coming to Spain have to see them telling everyone how bad it is! It really does beggar belief but then, it’s their business I guess.
Real Radio International Weekly Lineup Listen online - www.realradio.torrevieja24.com Monday –Friday
08:00hrs -11:00 hrs
Here comes the sun, Dave Bull Monday – Friday 11:00hrs – 14:00hrs Lorna’s Lunchbox (Lorna Michelle) Monday –Friday
14:00hrs – 17:00hrs
The other side of the sheriff Monday – Thursday 17:00hrs – 20:00hrs Nessie in Studio 2 Friday 17:00hrs – 20:hrs An Evening In With Bernie Saturdays 10:00 hrs -13:00hrs The manic breakfast in bed with the sheriff 13:00hrs – 16:00hrs Weekend @ Bernies Part One 16:00hrs – 19:00hrs A girl Called Soo 19:00hrs Saving The Seventies With Mike Walker Sundays 10:00hrs – 13:00hrs Weekend @ Bernies Part two 13:00hrs – 16:00hrs Lazy Sunday Afternoon With Tony Moore
So... enough moaning and on with the show, I mean magazine! Days out for under a tenner, is the UK cheaper than Spain? And our fun quiz to see just how ‘European’ you really are! Read on and enjoy…
ABOGADOS · BARRISTERS SOLICITORS · TAX ADVISORS Any legal problems?
16:00hrs – 19:00hrs A girl Called Soo 19:00hrs Saving the seventies Mike Walker
965 480 737 / 606 056 282 info@pellicerheredia.com
contact us on: 96 669 5160 - 606 540 408 - ask@allabroad.es
3
4
QUALIFIED GESTORA
Est. 1991
Fiscal help...
SPANISH WILLS – NEW LAW
Spanish probate / Inheritances Spanish Wills Conveyancing Notarial deeds Fiscal representation Property taxes Power of attorney
To make a Spanish will for their
National laws on succession differ
Spanish
always
greatly between England and Spain.
been a favoured option by for-
assets
has
Under Spanish law at least two
eign property owners in Spain.
thirds of the estate will be inherited by descendants whereas English
It makes it easier for the heirs and
law does not have forced heirs and,
Private sales contracts
allows the presentation of the rel-
generally, you can leave it to who-
evant inheritance tax declarations
ever you wish.
Change-over of utility bills
within the time frame given by the tax authorities, thereby avoiding
If you have children but left every-
Planning permissions
the payment of penalty surcharges.
thing to your spouse on your Spanish Will it is advisable to check that
A Spanish will is authorised by a
the said Will is made according to
Spanish Notary and registered in
your national law. If not, it will be
Madrid. The procedure is simple
best to make a new Will in which
and has put many a testators’ mind
you opt for the application of the
at rest.
same.
Until now that is. Because a Eu-
The inheritance tax issue is not
ropean Regulation was passed in
affected by this law. A transfer of
2012 according to which the law
assets by inheritance has always
of
been subject to the payment of in-
succession
(inheritance)
will
be the law of the country where
heritance tax in Spain.
the deceased had his/her habitual residence at the time of death. The said regulation will apply to suc-
Please visit www.andreaburns.
cessions of persons who die on or
es for more detailed informa-
after the 17th August 2015.
tion about our services or call
However, foreigners in Spain can
96 6697824.
opt for their national law to apply when making a Spanish will. This has to be expressively mentioned in the said Will.
Avenida América, 32, GRAN ALACANT 96 669 7824 OFFICE@ANDREABURNS.ES
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
5
Office: 96 679 5233 email:info@ipgspain.com www.ipgspain.com
Homes in Spain Try it the IPG way!
LOS BALCONES
LA MARINA
COMMEND-
VIEWING RE
DELIGHTFUL 3 bed, 2 bath, Isabella style quad, immaculate cond throughout, solarium with views, sep kitchen, off rd parking, attractive well stocked garden. Nothing to do just move in!
MURCIA, BEAUTIFUL 3 bed, 2 bath south facing det villa, approx plot 2,300m2 and approx build 130m2, quiet location, pool, det garage, brick built summer kitchen, furnished. If you want a country property then, look no further.
EXTENDED, 3 bed, 2 bath, det villa, pool, solarium, overlooks verde to the rear, sep kitchen, lounge diner, master bed en suite, aircon. Lovely property.
LA MARINA
EL OASIS
LA MARINA
Ref:712 95,000€
Ref:709 108,000€
Ref:687 69,000€
LOVELY 3 bed, 2 bath, quad style property, very good condition throughout, short walk to local amenities, com pool, solarium with great views over to Rojales and Guardamar.
SPACIOUS 3 bed, 2 bath, quad style property, American kitchen, ground and 1st floor terraces, solarium with lovely views, utility area, furnished, com pool,. This is a great property viewing recommended.
EXTENDED 2 bed, 2 bath mid terrace bungalow, open plan kitchen, lounge diner, Ex cond throughout, solarium with views, furnished, cotogran external finish. Viewing highly recommended.
LA MARINA
EL OASIS
QUESADA
Ref:688 85,000€
Ref:747KR 57,500€
SUPERB 3 bed, 2 bath det villa, approx plot 870m2, build approx 123m2. Pool, sep lounge with fire place, sep lounge with American style kitchen, master bed has en suite bathroom, ex cond throughout. Amenities are nearby, the beach is 1km.
LA MARINA
Ref:713 279,900€
If you want a project, then this could be for you. 3 bed, 3 bath det villa needs some modernising, covered pool, sep kitchen, summer kitchen, fireplace in lounge diner, very close to all amenities. Large plot of approx 1,100m2 and approx build of 134m2. Under build, with plenty of storage
QUESADA
PRICE
Ref:636 128,000€
Ref:714 124,900€
RTUNITY!
VERY GOOD
LA MARINA
Ref:710 159,500€
Ref:746 259,900€
GREAT OPPO
ABANILLA
E!
GOOD PRIC
00€
600€
Ref:678SS 149,950€
DESIRABLE 3 bed, 2 bath det villa, on the popular Monte Azul, Urbanization, solarium, sep kitchen, master bed has a shower en suite, com pool, with games and seating area, 1,000m2 well kept verde area to the side. Very good cond throughout
00€
ONLY!
Ref:377
60,000€
EXCELLENT 2 bed, 1 bath, Rosita style property, open plan lounge diner, with open plan kitchen area, small front and rear terraces, Ex cond throughout, this would be great for a 1st time buy, holiday home, or rental opportunity
LOVELY 2 bed, 2 bath quad style property, American style kitchen, solarium with conservatory and views, terrace off master bedroom, American style kitchen, com pool, very good condition throughout, viewing recommended.
ONLY!
GREAT little 2 bed, 1 bath ground floor apartment, walking distance to all amenities, lounge diner, glazed doors to balcony, American style kitchen, com pool, this property is ideal for permanent living, rental income, or holiday use. Plenty of things to do in Quesada. Great price!
LOOK ON OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEW BUILD PROPERTIES, VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, CALL US TO ARRANGE VIEWINGS!!!! DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS OPPORTUNITY.
6
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
Quality Satellite TV on the Costa Blanca
Getting TV in here in Spain can be a confusing and daunting task and finding a reliable and informative company is vital. Welcome Go Satellite! Set up over 8 years ago now by husband and wife team Ian and Deborah, Go Satellite has established itself as the authority when it comes to TV installation with Ian having worked in the industry, both in the UK and here in Spain for over 20 years. Having spent 10 years working with Sky In Home Services in the UK, where he focused on the specialist heights team as well as SKY’S Prestigious VIP Team which caters for the “stars”. With that sort of criteria the standard and quality of the workmanship is extremely high! After leaving Sky, Ian set up his own business in the UK and ran this successfully for 5 years before moving to Spain.
that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend that they get the
time with our customers to ensure best system for their needs”.
Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner and clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. Added to that is the fact that Go Satellite is a fully legal, Spanish registered business that provides individual, company and community installations with a free no obligation site survey. Go Satellite is going from strength to strength! They have now opened a new office in Calle Los Arcos No 7 Ciudad Quesada. SO you can now come and meet us and we will endeavour to help you with all of your TV queries.
Go Satellite is based in Ciudad Quesada and covers most of the Costa Blanca. Over the past 8 years the company has installed hundreds of TV systems for individuals, companies and communities using only the highest quality Portuguese manufactured dishes and this is a system that requires NO monthly payments. Packages are available to suit everybody’s requirements and budget. Go Satellite offer expertise, reassurance and a proven track record, which can be backed up by many a satisfied customer.
Here at Go Satellite, we use only Top Quality Portuguese dishes and Invacom LNB’s. Sky packages are also available: Full HD Package 20€ per month (which includes Sports and Movies) internet connection required. If you “It’s important to do not have room or do not wish to have a big us that the cus- dish, give us a call we have a solution! At Go Satellite, we endeavour, to provide TV tomer fully under- for everyone.
stands what we So if you are fed up of missing your fado and is happy vourite programs or you have lost your with the service TV signal and do not want to lose out we are providing” anymore, then call Ian or Deborah on
Ian said “being a small company has its advantages. We offer a personal service and get to know our customers by name. It’s important to us that the customer fully understands what we do and is happy with the service we are providing. W e realise
965725670 or call into our office to find out more about Go Satellite. Alternatively check our website: www.freetvspain.com
Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
7
€179
LA MARINA Second Hand Furniture BEST PRICES PAID Part exchange available
FORGET THE REST WE ARE THE BEST! WE COLLECT
Call: 96 644 3370 - 625 985 491 La Marina Village
8
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
ARE YOU A EUROPEAN…or what? What are we? Do you know or do we just stick a label on ourselves because we live abroad? Expats, Europeans, foreigners or maybe escapees from our old and cold country? We’ve devised a fun test to see what sort of readers we have out there and for you to have some fun with neighbours and friends – have a go and see if you are a European or even an escapee! Check your scores at the back of the magazine (page 30) and let us know whether, as you perhaps thought, you should really be living here or perhaps, as you suspected, you maybe could be packing that suitcase heading off to somewhere else?! 1. Spain? A. B. C. D.
Why do you want to live in The sun The health benefits The culture Don’t like home country
2. Whats the best thing about living in Spain? A. The sun B. Less traffic C. The ‘life’ D. Better than elsewhere 3. A. B. C. second D.
Do you think Spain is? Behind the times Goes at its own pace A place where people put work Needing to catch up with Europe
4. Has your perception of living abroad changed? A. no B. yes C. The longer I’m here the more it changes D. It’s not what I thought 5. Do you like living with other nationalities? A. Sometimes B. Most of the time C. Are they foreign? D. Not really 6. A. B. C. D.
Do you think the Spanish are? Noisy Inconsiderate Happy to talk Too loud
7. A. B. C. ago D.
Have you moved here? Maybe sometime in future Never will Yes, and should have done it years
8. where A. B. C. D. 9. A. B. C. D.
Been here too long Are there too many foreigners you live? Yes No I mix with anyone Too many Spanish Do you speak Spanish? No Tried but couldn’t get it Yes I don’t use it much
10. If you speak Spanish… Did you learn it here? A. No B. In school/college C. Yes D. I don’t often speak it
18. A. B. C. the dot. D. Spanish
11. If you don’t speak Spanish… Was it..? A. Too hard B. Can’t see any reason to C. I really want to D. They all speak English
19. What do you think of the driving in Spain? A. Awful B. Getting better C. No better or worse than elsewhere D. They drive too close
12. If the government suddenly declared: ‘You have to Speak Spanish to live here’…would you? A. Go home to your country B. Hide C. Learn the language D. Pretend to have lost the power of speech
20. A. B. C. D.
13. Would you consider living in another European country? A. No B. Only back in my own C. Yes D. What for..? 14. A. B. C. D. 15. A. B. trymen C. D.
Do you watch TV in Spain? Only my native channels Sports only Yes a mix of all No Do you go out? Local bars Mainly to places where my counare Anywhere! I’ll go anywhere there’s alcohol!
16. Do you like Spanish food? A. Sometimes B. It’s awful C. I like a variety of all different types of food D. Don’t know what’s in it! 17. Do you think Spanish shops are good? A. Sometimes B. Not helpful C. You will usually have to look around but generally yes. D. They’re never open!
Are Spanish tradespeople..? Always late Not helpful Helpful but perhaps not always on I use people I know rather than
Are the Guardia Civil..? Rude Just doing their job Could be more approachable The same as a dictator’s army…
21. Do you think you will live here…? A. For a while B. For as long as possible C. Forever D. Until I we lose our TV channels 22. here? A. B. C. D.
Do you/ would you have kids Yes but only by accident Maybe I’d love to see them grow up here No
23. Would you like your kids..? A. To remember their heritage proudly B. Mix with foreigners but come home to a non-Spanish environment C. Grow up half Spanish and half your native country D. Brought up elsewhere 24. If your child came home with a partner from another country would you..? A. Prefer they didn’t B. Keep an eye on them but welcome them. C. Ask the partner about their heritage and culture D. Lock the doors 25. Spain’s biggest problem is: A. Corruption B. House prices C. The way it’s unrealistically perceived following the recession D. Too many foreigners
Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
9
Dave Bull looks into the costs of living in both the UK and Spain and high highlights just how expats can easily live a stress-free and relatively less ex expensive life while still enjoying all that is best about this European hotspot!
CAN YOU AFFORD TO
LIVE THE LIFE IN SPAIN? So does it still hold true that
it well known brands from the UK where a
in the cost of living between Spain and UK
Spain is a cheaper place to live
cheaper, but just as good Spanish alterna-
has narrowed over recent years but not by
than the UK? To answer that we
tive would be more than an adequate sub-
very much and when it comes to spend-
need to take several factors into
stitute. The Spanish are also more likely to
ing you money in the shop - unless you
buy as they need and not overspend.
head off with the intention of buying your
It will also depend on where you live too of
favourite UK brands as you did back home,
account, for example will you be living the same type of lifestyle when you start your new life in Spain? Or are you moving abroad to retire or wind down a little and perhaps get a part-time job? If
course. Moving from perhaps a rural set-
then of course your till receipt is not going
ting in northern England to an apartment
to offer a true reflection of the difference
in, or near, a city will see your general
in costs as if you had replaced those items
costs rise because cities are an expen-
with alternative products more common to
sive place to live anywhere in the world.
the Spanish shopper.
your lifestyle is likely to be differ-
The trick is to compare like for like where
ent when you make the move it is
possible, and if not be aware of increased,
AS a general rule of thumb, the closer
well worth taking into account the
or maybe even decreased, expenditure -
your life is to the life of the local Spanish
possibility that you could have far
depending on your choice of way of life in
population around you the cheaper your
more leisure time on your hands
Spain.
shopping bill gets and if you’re prepared to take a trip to local markets you can bag
and budget, if necessary, accord-
even more bargain produce and signifi-
ingly.
Way of life Another thing to have in mind is that the Spanish do live very economically with most meals eaten at home with family and, for most, one coffee or small beer will last at least an hour if they are out with friends. Most leisure time too is spent inexpensively, often walks with family or just meeting up for the aforementioned beverage, but not spending much more than the loose change they carry. While we, as northern Europeans, have a tendency to spend more than we need - I know when my family visit for a week there is always lots of items left over; toothpaste, food,
Find the middle ground
cantly reduce your costs.
However, none of that answer the question
Those of us who have lived in Spain for a
about whether Spain is a cheap place to
little while manage to find a happy medium
live but to answer that we need to com-
when buying our shopping and blend our
pare, to only with the United Kingdom, but
favourite products from back home with
also with how Spain has performed with
local produce. Marmite on Spanish toast
regards to it being economically attractive,
in the morning - perfect! One item that
over recent
has increased relatively is the cost of fuel
years.
for motor vehicles has seen a rise that There dence that
is some evishowing
has made the price more comparable with the UK - although Spain is still about 17% cheaper overall. Utilities
the gap
The costs of services, electricity, water, rates and telephones are still generally a
good deal cheaper in Spain than in the UK,
cartons
although
of milk
internet
and
is still
more, and the vast majority of
10
a little more expensive
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
So does it still hold true that Spain is a cheaper place to live than the UK? To answer that we need to take several factors into account, for example will you be living the same type of lifestyle when you start your new life in Spain? Or are you moving abroad to retire or wind down a little and perhaps get a part-time job? If your lifestyle is likely to be different when you make the move it is well worth taking into account the possibility that you could have far more leisure time on your hands and budget, if necessary, accordingly.
with the monopoly of Movistar over and
again one should consider how much we
of around 48 hours per week to attain his
a free market now operating, competition
will be using a vehicle abroad as often it is
income while the average Spanish work-
is driving prices to the consumer down in
a lot less than back in the UK which when
ing week is 39 hours - the Spanish would
that sector too. When taken as a whole
factored in with the less costly car tax in
rather earn less and have more time with
(including bottled gas) the cost of an
Spain (approximately 70% of the cost for
the families, and that makes for a great
average sized apartment in Spain would
a matching car being road taxed in the UK)
working philosophy!
be almost 40% less expensive to run than
and in-town parking costs roughly 50%
a comparable one back in the UK - and
of the price of parking on Britain’s cities
the rubbish bins are emptied every day in
streets it means that driving in Spain can
SO Spain really is still relatively cheap
Spain! Looking at the average cost of elec-
be relatively inexpensive, and the roads
from a cost of living point of view and once
tricity per household in the UK, which in
are also a lot quieter too! As a footnote I
compared to other western European na-
2012 was 120 pounds, and comparing it to
felt I should mention that the public trans-
tions it is clear that by living the life that
Spain which was about the same numbers
port in Spain is relatively cheaper than
suits you, and preparing for it accordingly,
but in euros shows us that with the arrival
back in the UK with a train ride along the
Spain is still an ideal destination for not
of competition in the power markets of
coast to Benidorm from Alicante (approxi-
only its weather and healthy climate, but
Spain the traditionally high cost of electric-
mately 40 miles) costing just 22.70 euros.
so you can afford to live the life you want
ity to the home is starting to be reduced
What about if you’re working?
to live in Spain but without the stresses
which can only be good for the consumer.
that come with a high cost of living. Wages of course will be a consideration and should also be taken into account if
On the menu
we are to truly compare the two countries’
As I write the latest figures arrive on
Eating out in Spain is still very much
economies and while it still hold true that
my laptop showing the cost of living
cheaper than back in the UK with so many
in Spain the average wage is still a far bit
in Spain has actually come down in
places vying for customers the competition
lower than that in the UK at 1400 euros of
several major sectors across the coun-
(and therefore the quality too) is good for
disposable income per month while in the
try. For example the cost of renting an
all and with a meal for two in a medium-
UK it stands at around 1950 euros. How-
apartment has dropped about 10-20%
priced restaurant working out at around 25
ever, Spain is catching up and while the UK
since the financial crisis began, and
euros for two people that compares very
incomes were declared ‘stagnant’ because
some tourist areas have are reducing
favourably but, as I said at the start, it
they rose at the same rate as inflation
the costs of items in shops to attract
also depends on how often you go and if a
in recent years, Spain has seen a slight
(and keep) the popular regions buzz-
weekly treat in the UK turns into an almost
increase in disposable income with income
ing in the summer period.
daily event in Spain - you will be spend-
rising faster than inflation since 2007.
ing more. A menu del dia in any Spanish
It should also be noted that the average
restaurant is pretty much a guarantee of
worker in the UK needs to put in a shift
value for money and if you shop around you can often have lunch for two people and you may still get change from a ten euro note!
Getting around Fuel has increased in cost over recent years but still remains a good 20 cents less expensive than its Anglo equivalent and
10
MAD
800m2 2nd FLOOR SHOWROOM NOW OPEN!
MAY
offers! AT
DON’T MISS OUT!
WHEN IT’S GONE - IT’S GONE!
PILLOW SHAM NOW
€8.95
from
€4.95
CURLY FUR €19.95 THROWS
from
€5.95
NOW
€9.95
LATEX MATTRESSES from
€45
TIE-BACKS
PAIR OF JUMBO PILLOWS
from
NOW
€5.95
€9.95
CALLE LOS ARCOS - CIUDAD QUESADA Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm. Sat 10am - 2pm
Tel.
652 634 714
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER! Images are for illustration purposes only
13
GREAT SATELLITE TV OFFERS! ! Great Satellite TV Offers!!
Are you bored with the TV stations you receive? Free to air system: 1m Dish, Receiver installation..................229€ 1.1m Dish, Receiver installation..............259€ 1.1 m Dish, 1.35m Dish,Receiver, Receiver, Installation.............259€ Installation.............329€
ForHigh Highdefinition definition receiver receiver add...............50€ add...............50€ For No Monthly fee No Monthly fee
SKY Package: Receiver ) ..............................249€ Receiveronly only( HD (HD)..............................249€
1.1m Dish, Receiver, installation.......429€ 1m Dish, HDHD Receiver, installation..........399€ 1.35m Dish,HD HDReceiver, Receiver,Installation.......430€ Installation.......499€ 1.1m Dish, Plus 13€ per month Plus 15€ per month
CALL NOW:
Call Now: 966 795 552
See live demo at La Marina LIVE DEMO! Sunday Every Market Thursday
LA MARINA MARKET 696 566 940
Email ray@bigboysgadgets.com
96 679 5552 696 566 940 email: ray@bigboysgadgets.com 14
Be Original - ALL ABROAD! -TEL. 606 540 408
10
!
ca n a l B a t s o C e on th
Places to go for
UNDER A TENNER! Archaeological Museum of Alicante
Canelobre Caves
The Archaeological Museum of Alicante
The largest and
(MARQ) has a massive display of histori-
deepest caves in
cal finds from all around the province of
Spain the Canelobre
Alicante; dating from the Palaeolithic to the
Caves are just 20 minutes from Alicante
modern age. A tour is presented through
city and are an amazing local natural won-
road CV-755 in Altea la Vella to Callosa
an innovative and ground-breaking system
der. Step inside and experience the unique
d’En Sarrià and then to El Castell de Gua-
of visual aids and is well worth it.
atmosphere and acoustics that the caves
dalest.
Address: Plaza Doctor Gomez Ulla, Located
offer. The kids will love it too!
Phone: (+34) 965885298
in the old Provincial Hospital of San Juan
During the summer the caves are open
turismoguadalest@guadalest.es
de Dios.
from 10.30 am until 7.50pm and the win-
guadalest@touristinfo.net
Opening Hours: July and august: Tuesday
ter from 11am to 5.50am.
to Saturday: from 11am to 2pm and from
Entrance costs 4€ for adults
6pm to 12am
and 2€ for children up
Sundays and public holidays: from 11am
to 12.
to 2pm
Children under 5 free.
Villajoyosa Spain, is just 30
September to
El Castell de Gua-
and with its unique multi- co-
June: Tuesday to
delest
Saturday: from
Castell de Guadelest is a
10am to 7pm
beautiful village with just a couple
Sundays and
of hundred residents. Within an hour of
public holidays:
Alicante this place has a little of something
much too narrow for vehicles – and on
from 10am to
for everyone including a range of museums
down towards the beach where a multitude
2pmClosed on
from a dolls house museum, a miniatures
of café bars await in the sunshine.
Mondays
museum, a micro-gigantic museum, a
Price Archaeological Museum of Alicante:
motorcycle museum and even a torture
General admission: 3 €
chamber!
The waterfall of L’ Algar
Entry students, seniors and youngsters
Lots of small local shops selling local food
Just 15 minutes from Benidorm but a
under 16: 1,50 €
products as well as pottery, glass and
world of difference awaits at the waterfalls
leather goods so take some cash!
which are stunning, beautiful and of course
To get there: Take the road CV-70 in La
refreshing in the summer!
Guadalest.2.Take the
Villajoyosa town just in the south of Benidorm minutes north of Alicante
Closed on Mondays
loured houses filling the town centre and lining the seafront the
Nucia or Polop de la Marina and follow the signs to
place is a tranquil but fascinating town., Take a stroll through the tiny streets –
With the water temperature at a constant 18 degrees Celsius all year round these waterfalls and rivers should be top of anyone’s list when paying a visit to the Costa Blanca. Free to jump in or look at and great fun for all the family!
15
Estate Agents Victoria Estate Agent Victoria, established
Anyone who wishes to be informed
some 30 years ago, offers its
about our costs or would like a quote,
clients a top quality service,
also enquire about all the other services
which can only be offered by a
we have to offer, then please call at our
company exclusively devoted and
office in Gran Alacant at any time and
experienced in property services
under no obligation what-so-ever.
with a long running track record on the Costa Blanca property market.
All our staff have a good knowledge of the English language and we also have
Over the years, Victoria Estate
a German speaking member of staff.
Agent has satisfied the needs of all its clients by searching for
Although the last couple of years have
and acquiring their properties.
not been easy for any of us, we are
Our priority has always been the
optimistic that this year we shall start
“wellbeing” of our clients and
to see some improvements in the
looking after their interests not
property market.
only at the time of buying but also with an excellent after-sales service. We offer all type of help to our clients including the arranging of inheritance
FEEL AT HOME Inmobiliaria Victoria Avda. Escandinavia, 72 C.C. Altomar II L.10 03130 Gran Alacant · Santa Pola Tlf. 966697779 · 966698180 Fax 966697378 sp@victoria.es
NEW!
tax when losing one of their loved ones, making it as painless and easy as possible. Our charges are far lower than what one can find through other means.
www.victoria.es
inmobiliaria - estate agent
FLAMENCOReservation SHOW AY
“STEAKHOUSE” MENU
Recommended
EVERY SATURD Flamenco Show + Dinner - 9.30pm
OPEN GRILL only
10€
MENU DEL DIA Every Day!
Tel: 966 69 53 99 OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 9.00am www.tablaolunares.com email: reservas@tablaolunares.com 16
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
e l s b 4 e u 3 M COLOUR CA/MM/BL YOUR 1 STOP FURNITURE SHOP
W e N D BrAN uK sofAs
THE HOME OF PRE-OWNED FURNITURE
f o e G N rA (fire res
is
ndar a t s K u tant to
ds)
uP uPto to
hALf Price 30 DIFFERENT
MODELS ON DISPLAY
MAKe
M u eb l e s 4 3
your 1st choice
Open: Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm, Sat 10am - 2pm NO SIESTA
QuicK ALL MAJor creDit *free* cArDs AccePteD DeLiVery 17 Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
CALLE LOS ARCOS 11, CIUDAD QUESADA
CALL LISA ON: 965 997 209 or 680 884 155
AVOID DELAYS WHEN
SENDING & RECEIVING
with
GOT AN
ACCOUNT?
SAVE MONEY! All parcels delivered within 48 hours
NO DELAYS
POLITE NOTICE: Dear customers, please do not confuse us with a Spansih company with a similar name who sell stamps. We work directly with Royal Mail & are fully legal.
Try us!
• You will be amazed at just how cost effective it is for our postal & courier services • No language barrier - we speak your language • No queueing • FULL worldwide postal & courier service • DISCOUNTS for bulk mail (50 letters or more)
up to
15%
DISCOUNT!
Renew your British passport FREE document check prior to sending DAILY service to the British Consulate in Madrid
OFFICE: C/San Luis 2, 03187 Los Montesinos Alicante Tel. 966 720 959 Visit our website: www.easypost.es Email: alicantesouth@easypost.es
18
FREE, NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES!
www.toldospenalver.com C/Gaspasr Quiles Pascual, 24, ELCHE
Tel.
965 43 23 50
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
10
continued
Places to go
for UNDER A TENNER! Castle of Santa
seven children, known as the Imperial
Barbara.
Palm tree.
Divided into three
Entry prices are between 3€ and 5€ (this
parts on three
includes an audio guide in English and the
different levels,
place is open every day of the year.
each section
Well worth a peaceful stroll in the evening,
dates from a
morning or indeed whenever!
different period
Open all year: Winter from 10.00am h to
with the oldest
5pm
being at the very
Summer from 9.00am to 8.30pm
top of the Castle
Address: Calle Porta de la Morera, 49
which sits proudly
(Parque Municipal)
overlooking the
Phone: 965 453 603
Mediterranean and Alicante city, and
Arabic Baths inside a Convent Elche
Rojales Water Park,
beyond, on the top of the 166 meter Mount
A few hundred years ago Infante Don
Aqua-Park, Rojales
Benacantil.
Manuel forced monks of the Orden de la
Water slides- four slower slides and two
Access to the Castle can be done through
Merced to build a convent over the ruins
known as the ‘kamikaze’! Plus three chil-
a lift shaft excavated out of the rock and
of the Arab baths and until few years ago,
dren’s pools and a large swimming pool
situated opposite the beach of Postiguet.
that was the function of this building
with free sun beds and parasols. Then
You can also reach the castle on foot or by
Luckily for us this small but historic place
there’s a restaurant, a cafeteria, a big lawn
car via the road that begins at Vazquez de
was recovered and opened up to the public
with a picnic area and lots of parking.
Mella Street and runs through the north
and although it won’t take long to look
Rojales Aqua Park is a very reasonable day
side of Mount Benacantil.
around the tour (along with audio) is worth
(or morning or afternoon) out whether you
Opening Hours
it just to see how this place used to func-
take little kids or big ones (yourselves!)
Santa Barbara Castle: October to March.
tion
Address: C/ del Norte, s/n. Ciudad Que-
Every day from 10am to 2.30pm and from
Audio tours are usually in Spanish, but
sada. ROJALES
4pm to 8pm
you can opt for other languages: Catalan,
Tel. 96 671 86 12
April to September. Every day from 10am
French and English.
Open: from first Monday of June until the
to 8pm
Open: Tuesday to Saturday: 10.00am to
15th of September. 10.30am until 7pm.
Ticket Price: Free
1.00pm and 4.30pm to 8pm.
Prices: Adults: 9€, under-11’s and over
Castle Schedule Elevator Santa Barbara
TICKETS for 1€, (individual) 0,5€ (groups).
65’s: 7€
Castle: October to March. First elevator at
Sunday and non-labour days: 10.30am to
10am. Last elevator up at 7pm. Last eleva-
1.30pm. FREE ENTRANCE.
Touring Torrevieja by bicycle
tor down at 7.20pm.
Closed on Mondays.
A great way to get around and see the old
April to September. First elevator at 10am.
Address: c/ Eres de Santa Llúcia, 13
fishing town of Torrevieja and its surround-
Last elevator up at 7.30pm. Last elevator
Phone: 965 45 28 87
ing area and cycling lovers will find plenty
down at 7.45pm
of access and routes in the area either
Elevator Ticket: 2,40 €
running to and from the beach or along the seafront to La Mata.
Huerto del Cura Elche
Other routes include visiting the local
Covering over 13,000 square metres and
nature and wildlife in the Lagoons Natural
filled with tropical and Mediterranean
Park or along the green way (Via verde).
plants, this wonderfully exotic garden was
With plenty of places to rent a bicycle if
declared a National Artistic
you don’t have one of your own, cycling
Garden in 1943.
Torrevieja is a great way to see Spain.
Along with
BIKE HIRE: Tel: 00(34) 966774598
many rare
Mob: 00(34) 655338066
species it also
Castle of Santa Barbara Alicante
exhib-
Dating back to the 9th century the Castle
its the
of Santa Barbara first saw life during the
only
Muslim rule of Alicante. Three centuries
example
later, King Carlos I fortified the site and
of a date
transformed it into the current form of the
palm with
contributors - experienced for expat info STILLOur theown cheapest advertising around- TEL. 606 540 408
19
We also offer all kinds of pain treatments and prescriptions - Normal consultation from 30â‚Ź
20
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
ABOGADOS – SOLICITORSBARRISTERS Få Det På Svenska - Orolig över det spanska Skattesystemet? ADVOKATER - ASESORES TRIBUTARIOS
Information och artiklar i Spanien för nya eller gamla expats publiceras i allmänhet på engelska eller spanska, men är det samma information som ska nå ut till skandinaverna också? Många kommentarer om att vi skandinaver talar perfekt engelska, men det är inte alltid fallet, så nu publicerar vi denna information på svenska, för skandinaviska människor som har frågor om olika juridiska frågor som t ex, skatt i Spanien, testamente i Spanien , spansk sjukvård och många andra frågor.
När är det dags?
Spansk självdeklaration - declaración de Renta Vem måste göra en spansk skattedeklaration? Med mycket få undantag, alla bosatta i Spanien (mer än 183 dagar) i skattehänseende och någon inkomst eller kapitalvinster någonstans i världen måste lämna in en självdeklaration. Utländska fastighetsägare är också skyldiga att lämna skattedeklarationer, men måste följa ett annat system till invånarna.
Vad händer om jag inte betalar?
Deklarationen skall lämnas in senast den 30 juni under året efter det aktuella beskattningsåret. Så i 2013 kommer alla att lämna sina 2012 skattedeklarationer maj / juni. Skatten ska betalas av den 30 juni. Normalt ska den skattskyldiges bankuppgifter finnas på deklarationen och skatten tas automatiskt från kontot.
• överlåtelsehandlingar • Testament & arv • Lag tvister av alla slag • skatterådgivare & Bokföring • Fordon & körkorts registrering
Den brytpunkt är 22,000 € under ett år som gäller för inkomst av tjänst och pensioner, inklusive dem från utlandet. Denna gräns sjunker till 11,200 € under dessa omständigheter: - Inkomsten inte har beskattats vid källan (dvs.statliga eller privata pensioner) - Inkomsten kommer från mer än en källa (t.ex. två jobb eller två pensioner eller en av varje) om andra källor uppgår till 1,500 € eller mindre kan du fortfarande använda 22,000 € undantag. I vilket fall som helst kan en deklaration blir obligatoriskt under vissa omständigheter trots låga inkomster: - Om du har en fordran för dubbelbeskattning - Om du är på grund av en återbetalning
HAR DU JURIDISKA PROBLEM? Vi talar engelska spanska och - Om du har gjort pensionsavgifter - Om du påstår avdrag för kostnaden skandinaviska språkför att köpa din huvudsakliga bostad - Om du har kapitalvinster eller inkomst över vissa gränser
Tänk på att det kan vara i ditt intresse att göra en självdeklaration när dina inkomster är låga, till exempel om du har arbetat för endast en del av året och kan därför bero på en rabatt. Det finns även fördelar med att vara skattskyldiga i Spanien. Utländsk inkomstskatt Icke bosatta är skattskyldig för alla inkomster som uppkommer i Spanien, såsom insättning med en spansk bank, en fastighet i Spanien eller inkomst som förvärvas av alla företag i Spanien. Fastighetsägare beskattas på deras kapitalinkomster. Skatteunderlaget är värdet i fastighetsregistret (Valor catastral) som kan hittas på någon IBI (i Alicante-provinsen SUMA räkning). Skulle du inte betala denna skatt, kommer du att debiteras och straffas av det spanska Skatteverket om du försöker sälja din bostad. När blir jag skattemässigt resident? Det korta svaret är att leva längre än 183 dagar i Spanien (inklusive tillfälliga resor ut ur landet) under ett kalenderår gör dig skattemässigt hemmahörande. Förväxla inte få en spansk behörande certifikat med skatt hemvist, vilket visar att du är i registret av utlänningar som hålls av polisen och inte motsvara skatte behörig, även om skattemyndigheterna kan se det som ett bevis på att du är skattemässigt bosatt om det är någonsin en tvistefråga.
Underlåtenhet att betala skatt kan medföra straff på mellan 50% och 150% av den skatteskuld, plus ränta. Sena betalningar kan leda till påföljder mellan 5% och 20% av den berörda skatten, jämte ränta. Om du är bosatt i Spanien kommer du att beskattas för din totala inkomst, och är skyldig att lämna självdeklaration. Du måste ange följande information: Resultat skatteskyldig:
- Resultatet från arbetet (löner, pensioner etc.) - Resultat från flytande kapital (aktieutdelningar, räntor etc.) och från fastighets kapital (från uthyrning av fastigheter, etc.). - Resultat från ekonomisk verksamhet (arbetsgivare, yrkesverksamma, etc.) - Nettoresultat och realisationsvinster förlust (genom överföring av varor, vissa priser, osv.) - Lagligen etablerad imputeringar av intäkter från ägandet av vissa egenskaper, förutom hyresbostad etc.) - Intyg om arbetslöshet (om arbetslös under verksamhetsåret). - Statliga bidrag (i förekommande fall). Vilken information skulle jag ge tillgängliga för att inkludera dem som avdrag? Sista Suma räkningar för personlig bostad eller hyrda fastigheter. Bevis på inteckning eller lån (om någon). Inköpsdatum på bosättning. Pensionsplans bidrag. Bidrag till välgörande ändamål. Annan information som behövs för din självdeklaration: Kopia av residencia och pass. Namn och födelsedatum av berörda. Förra årets inkomstdeklaration. Intyg om funktionshinder (om inaktiverad). Kopia av lagfart (Escritura). Bankkontonummer (skall endast användas i händelse av skatteåterbäring). Detta är bara allmänna riktlinjer. Det rekommenderas att alla tekniska och juridiska frågor som rör skatter hänvisas till en advokat för att få råd, vägledning och utförande. Pellicer & Heredia Advokater & skatterådgivare hjälper gärna dig.
För mer information och gratis rådgivning, ring oss på +34 965 480737 eller mail info@pellicerheredia.com
Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
21
VI TALAR SVENSKA Call Linda: 664 125 173
Office: La Marina Pueblo FÖRSÄKRING -Bil - Hem - Företag - Liv - Hälsa - Dödsfall
22
ÖPPNINGSTIDER MÅNDAG - FREDAG
DIN FÖRSTA FÖRSÄKRING FRÅN LIBERTY FÖRSÄKRINGAR FÖR DITT HUSDJUR FRÅN
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
‘aving a laugh... The English language has some wonderfully anthropomorphic collective nouns for various groups of animals. We are all familiar with a A Herd of cows A Flock of chickens A School of fish A Gaggle of geese A Pride of lions. However, less widely known is: A Murder of crows as well as their cousins the rooks and ravens, An Exaltation of doves and, presumably because they look so wise: A Congress of owls. Now consider a group of Baboons. They are the loudest, unpredictable, dangerous, most obnoxious, viciously aggressive and least intelligent of all primates... What is the proper collective noun for a group of baboons? Believe it or not: A Parliament YEP... A PARLIAMENT OF BABOONS! Pretty much explains everything, doesn’t it? You just can’t make this stuff up!
Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
23
Tommy Walsh ...visits LA FINCA, ALGORFA for the Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show BANG ON!!!! With his hammer that is !!!! Tommy Walsh, famous as part of the BBC team Ground Force, will be at this original and highly popular show to be held this year at La Finca Golf & Spa Hotel on Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th May. Win VIP tickets courtesy of our main sponsors HiFX and receive a complimentary glass of cava with Tommy and enjoy the show. All you have to do is send your email address to pr@solproductions.tv and put TOMMY WALSH at La Finca in the subject line. This exciting SHOW being organised by GM Events for the 5th time in Spain, is two fantastic days packed with gardening to gastronomy, solar power to kitchen splash backs, interior design to outside services, the Showcase garden to outside doors and chests of draws! With a packed program of talks and demos both days given by local gardening experts, local tradesmen and artists. Enter the Art Competition, sponsored by Golden Leaves & Millie Munro Services, or take 'Tea with Tommy' sponsored by Cambridge 800. Temptation also awaits with food and wine tastings. There will be talks and demonstrations from many experts in their field's offering advice and services fundamental to lifestyle here in Spain. See, taste, try or buy hundreds of products, or just enjoy the atmosphere. Creating your dream home, garden and lifestyle has never been so easy or so much fun. We are planning more surprises than ever and keep adding to the details and attractions every day - see www.homesandgardens.es. Get ready for the most exciting Show of the year. The Original Homes, Gardens and Lifestyle SHOW continues to grow and will soon be blooming into action again! GM Events look forward to seeing you there! La Finca Golf & Spa Hotel, Los Montesinos, Algorfa km 3, Algorfa. AP7 junction Torrevieja Norte Wed 29th & Thurs 30th May 10.00 am – 6.00 pm To book
24
BANG ON!!!! With his hammer that is !!!! ARTIST
Proudly Sponsored By: Algorfa Costa Blanca
Blooming into action Wed 29th Thurs 30th May 2013
discovery2013 Competition
Tea With Tommy
Sponsored By:
With talks by Tommy and local experts
Tommy Walsh visits LA FINCA, ALGORFA for the Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show - Do not miss it! Tommy Walsh who became famous as part of the BBC team Ground Force, will be at this original and highly popular show to be held this year at La Finca Golf & Spa Hotel on Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th May. Win VIP tickets courtesy of our main sponsors HiFX and receive a complimentary glass of cava with Tommy and enjoy the show. All you have to do is send your email address to pr@solproductions.tv and put TOMMY WALSH at La Finca in the subject line. This exciting SHOW being organised by GM Events for the 5th time in Spain, is two fantastic days packed with gardening to gastronomy, solar power to kitchen splash backs, interior design to outside services, the Showcase garden to outside doors and chests of draws! With a packed program of talks and demos both days given by local gardening experts, local tradesmen and artists.
Enter the Art Competition, sponsored by Golden Leaves & Millie Munro Services, or take 'Tea with Tommy' sponsored by Cambridge 800. Temptation also awaits with food and wine tastings. There will be talks and demonstrations from many experts in their field's offering advice and services fundamental to lifestyle here in Spain. See, taste, try or buy hundreds of products, or just enjoy the atmosphere. Creating your dream home, garden and lifestyle has never been so easy or so much fun. We are planning more surprises than ever and keep adding to the details and attractions every day - see www.homesandgardens.es. Get ready for the most exciting Show of the year. The Original Homes, Gardens and Lifestyle SHOW continues to grow and will soon be blooming into action again! GM Events look forward to seeing you there!
La Finca Golf & Spa Hotel, Los Montesinos, Algorfa km 3, Algorfa. AP7 junction Torrevieja Norte Wed 29th & Thurs 30th May 10.00 am – 6.00 pm To book your stand at the show of the year with thousands of visitors contact the sales team office@solproductions.tv call 634 399 125 or 966 761 050 or visit www.homesandgardens.es
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
Calling all Artists!
Take Tea with Tommy... Ascot Style!! Cambridge 800 launched in Marbella in January 2012 and are delighted
Are you the next Klee, Warhol or Matisse?
Are you a budding new artist or even a seasoned talent? Then don’t miss this chance to shine!
to announce that they will be organising Tea with Tommy Walsh at The Homes Gardens and Lifestyle Show on the Show days Wednesday 29th
We invite you to submit your work to be featured at the
May and Thursday 30th May at La Finca Hotel in Algorfa. There are 30 tick-
exclusive
ets available each day at just €2.50 a ticket and a percentage of this will go to the Positively Pink Charity. Ladies and Gentlemen you do not need to
ARTIST Discovery 2013
dress Ascot Style but you can if you want to. Join Tommy and Cambridge
Competition
800 for Tea and a Cup Cake. We plan to ask Tommy to tell you a little bit which will be showcasing work during the premier
about himself and perhaps a few funny stories from his Ground Force days
2013 Homes, Gardens & Lifestyle Show organized by
but what he tells you will be up to Tommy! We feel sure it will be a fun
GM Events.
time and you will be with him for at least half an hour. On Wednesday this will take place during the afternoon and on Thursday during the morning. Gina Marks organiser of the SHOW said the whole idea behind these shows
It’s an exciting opportunity for your art to be viewed by thousands of art lovers – and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
is that they are just that... SHOWS rather than exhibitions. Yes we will have some lifestyle companies but the emphasis will be on Homes,Gardens, Lei-
All new, emerging or experienced artists
sure products and activities. For more details of the Homes Gardens and
are welcome to enter for the chance to dis-
Lifestyle Show and a "growing" list of our exhibitors / promoters please
play and even sell their artworks at the show
take a look at www.homesandgardens.es
Sarah Hawes, Directora from
Cambridge 800 says: "We always want to encourage healthy eating and one cup cake will contain approximately 225 calories - so a good walk around the exhibition and you will have burned off all those calories. A little of what you fancy, occasionally is good for you!" At the Cambridge 800 launch in Marbella in January 2012, Britain’s trade ambassador in Andalucía Joe Cooper described the company as ‘groundbreaking’ he said: “This is a positive and exciting arrival. I am sure it
.
All works will
also be entered into the competition, judged by a panel of experts and the winning artist will be announced as the show’s “ARTIST discovery2013” competition winner, a coveted title that will be covered by the local press. Venue: La Finca Golf & Spa Hotel, Algorfa, Costa Blanca. Date: 29th and 30th May 2013 Entry fee: €5 for each artwork (you may enter up to 3 works)
will do very well.” Cambridge 800 are proud to be bucking the trend of despondency and bad news in Spain with the creation of career opportuni-
Three entry categories:
ties and genuine support and guidance from Accredited Cambridge 800 Consultants. Cambridge have and still are generating good news stories
• Beginners (less than 3 years’ experience)
throughout Spain and especially on the Costa del Sol, where Cambridge
• Intermediate (3-8 years’ experience)
800 began in Spain.
• Expert (8 years or more experience)
Despite many of us coming to Spain for the healthy lifestyle, according to data released from the EU in December 2011, the levels of obesity in Spain have doubled since 1987 with now more than 15% of both men and woman classed as obese. One significant health risk from being overweight or obese is Diabetes. Blood sugar levels can easily be stabilised with Cambridge 800 and Consultants can treat customers who have both types 1
Styles accepted: acrylic, oil, drawing, pastel, watercolour, mixed media Hurry! Register your interest now! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to exhibit your work and enter this exclusive competition.
and 2 of diabetes with very positive results. Cambridge® is proven to be
Please email (email address) and we will send you full
successful in helping people from all walks of life achieve and manage a
details.
healthy weight and lifestyle - no joining fee applies call 952 586 324 or 952 475 954 for more information or email admin@cambridge800.es for details of your nearest Cambridge 800 Consultant.
Sponsored by Golden Leaves Limited, El Perpetuo Socorro and Millie Munro Services in aid of The Pink Ladies Cancer Charity
To get your Tea With Tommy Tickets: email sarahhawes@cambridge800.es or call 952 586 324/952 475 954
Golden Leaves ARTIST Discovery2013 Competition
STILL the cheapest advertising around- TEL. 606 540 408
25
Next to CAM Bank
HAIR & BEAUTY
avda mediterraneo 72 - GRAN ALACANT BEHIND CENTRO OPTICA 96 669 5031 avda escandinavia 72 - GRAN ALACANT
100M BEFORE QUICKSAVE
XTRA RENT A CAR Airports Home delivery No Extras
96 669 8418
The BEST for: Service Value & Price!
Call Paul
619 726 480
or email: xtrarentacar@xtra-car-hire.com
26
ALL ABROAD! - all our own ideas.
TEL. 606 540 408
ALL the
MARKETS
on the COSTA BLANCA! Monday Markets
Calpe (Rastro) El Campello Elda Guardamar del Segura La Font d’en Carros La Mata Muchamiel Monforte del Cid Novelda Orba Ondara Petrer Polop Potries Rotova San Miguel de Salinas Teulada
Agres Callosa d’En Sarria Cox Denia Elche Formentera Granja de Rocamora Ibi La Nucia Llocnou de Sant Jeroni Orihuela Parcent Petrer Penaguila Monover Real de Gandia San Pedro del Pinatar Santa Pola Sax Xeraco
Thursday Markets Agost Agres Albatera Alguena Alicante Aspe Benidoleig Cocentaina Gran Alacant Hondon de los Frailes Javea (Xabia) Llocnou de Sant Jeroni Pego Playe de Bellreguard Rafelcofer Rojales San Javier Tavernes de Valldigna Villajoyosa Xixona (Jijona)
Tuesday Markets Alicante (Rastro) Aspe Altea Barx Bellreguard Benijofar Campo de Mirra Castalla Elda Jalon (Xalo) Orihuela Palma de Gandia Piles Rafelcofer Relleu San Fulgencio Tibi Villalonga Xeresa
Friday Markets
Wednesday Markets Ador Albatera Alcoy Alqueries Almoines Banyeres Barx Benjema Beniaries Benidorm Benilloba Benitachell Biar Callosa de Segura
Albatera Alfaz del Pi Almoines Banyeres Benejuzar Beniarres Benidoleig Crevillente Daimus Denia (Rastro) El Verger Finestrat Gata de Gorgos Granja de Rocamora L’ Alfas del Pi Monforte del Cid
May
GIG GUIDE Friday cont...
Montesinos Moraira Muro de Alcoi Oliva Onil Petrer Pilar de la Horadada Rafol d’ Almunia Tibi Torrevieja Villalonga
Saturday Markets Alcoy Alicante Almoradi Alqueria Banyeres Bellreguard Benifairo Benissa Callosa d’En Sarria Calpe Castalla Castell de Castells Catral Elche Elda La Font d’En Carros La Romana Gaianes Hondon de las Nieves Novelda Ondara Pedreguer Playa Flamenca San Vicente del Raspeig Salinas Relleu Santa Pola Xalo (Jalon) Rastro
Sunday Markets
Algorfa Benidorm Benijofar Campoverde El Campo de Guardamar Elche El Zoco La Nucia Lliber La Marina Pedreguer Verger Villajoyosa
This month I would like to introduce you to the crazy but very talented world of Will Sparkle, after travelling the world for over thirty years he finally settled down in Benidorm twelve years ago where he even had his own bar in the old town for six years called Tiara’s with his partner Steve, but after the closure of the bar Will went out on the circuit around Benidorm with his brilliant Drag Show entertaining everyone who saw him, he even worked as a regular in the very popular Rich Bitch Show Bar for a while but really started to miss being out on the circuit so decided to leave to go back to being an independent artist. Sparkle has since gone from strength to strength and even highlighted last winter with an afternoon show at Benidorm Palace, his partner Steve is also working along side Will now as his compare and even has his own stage name ... Steve Glimmer. A lot of people are quite nervous about going to see Drag acts as they think they will be very OTT or pick on them and be very rude but this is not the case at all, Will is a very class act and appeals to all generations, he is not a blue act at all – of course he can be very naughty if the occasion calls for it!! But Sparkle is very good at judging his audience and knows just how far to go. Also this month is the start of the live entertainment every weekend in the square in front of Rumours and The Hole in the Wall in Gran Alicant the first one being Soul Power the excellent band playing all the classic Soul & Motown hits of yester year and they kick off the summer line up on the 11th So if you’re a bar or an entertainer and want to appear in the gig guide then please contact me by email on mandy@starsinbars.org or call me on 685302529 or just visit my website www.starsinbars.org
Mandy x
19th May
LIVE!
Gran Alacant
Our own contributors - experienced for expat info
27
Central Bar
e h T SUNDAY CARVERY Served 1pm-3pm
€6.95
kitchen closed Sunday evening
Plaza De La Villa 32, Hondon De Las Nieves Tel. 96 548 0681
QUIZ NIGHT IS BACK!
Saturday 18th May Dave C entertainer
Fish nEVERY Chips €7.95 FRIDAY
60s, 70s, 80s, country & western from 8pm
THURSDAY 21ST JUNE Royal Ascot Ladies Day
6.30pm - 9.00pm lightly battered cod, chips & either mushy or garden peas
5.50€
Daily blackboard specials
EVERY THURSDAY 8PM
Pre quiz meal €5.50 served 6.30 - 8.00pm
SKY TV
LIVE football
bookings now being taken
All Sat 4pm matches in HD
Opening hours
POOL LEAGUE New pool league starts 8th January NEW PLAYERS WELCOME
: SHOPS IN
C.C. BENIMAR Tel. 966 713 266
No kitchen in the evenings, except Friday fish & chip night Bar open 7 days a week 10am till late until further notice bar kitchen open 11am - 3pm & 6.30 - 9pm Monday - Saturday Sundays - carvery only 1 - 3pm, no kitchen Sunday evenings
C.C PUNTA MARINA PUNTA PRIMA Tel. 966 799 597
! K C O T S N I H SO MUC NOW IN STOCK!
NOW SELLING FLOWERS in our shops
Helium Balloons For All Occasions
IN STOCK!
Phone Cards Newspapers Internet
Celebrity Face Masks HUGELY POPULAR!
Punta Prima
EXTRA SPECIAL OFFER!!
2 x Paperbacks = 7€
Stationery
5 FIRST CLASS
letters or cards to UK for 28
3.50€
!
E R O M H C & MU
SUPER STORE N OW OPEN!!
Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!
ALTOMAR FINE FINISHING
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & IMPROVEMENTS SPECIALISTS IN WALK-IN SHOWERS PAINTING & DECORATING - GENERAL BUILDING TILING - BALLUSTRADES - SCREEN BLOCKS ELECTRICAL - PLUMBING - DRAINPIPES -GUTTERING LOCKS CHANGED - SHUTTER REPAIRS BOILERS - WATER FILTERS - KITCHEN WORKTOPS GALVANISED GRILLS & GATES Phone Eddie
TEL: 963 865 144 663 049 258 - MOBILE: 648 786 708
CHAMPIONS! PAUL SALIBA
With the Premier League race officially finished, it’s the fight for top 4 that is the main talking point. But to begin with, Manchester United have won back the league from their neighbours City, after a win against relegation threatened Aston Villa. Summer signing, Van Persie has led United to a deserved 20th title. They have been thoroughly dominant. The fight for the top four, however, is far from over. Chelsea find themselves in pole position out of the three London sides slugging it out for a win. Chelsea sit a point above Arsenal (as of 28th April) having played a game less and sit three above Tottenham. They have yet to play Spurs at Stamford Bridge this season and that could be one of the key games in deciding which teams qualify for next years Champions League. Chelsea should be confident with the likes of Mata and Hazard in good form recently, but they cannot afford to be complacent. Arsenal supporters have reason to be confident, but they are far from safe. They may have the easiest schedule, but they have played a game more than Spurs and Chelsea and are only two points above Tottenham. They have the weakest team on paper, but if Wilshire and Walcott can start producing the goods then maybe they can qualify. After all, their manager Arsene Wenger has qualified for the Champions League every single season since he joined Arsenal. Tottenham haven’t made the most of some favourable fixtures recently, most notably resulting in a 2-2 draw against Wigan in a game they could have easily lost. With player of the year favourite Gareth Bale in their squad, they should be confident of a top four finish and certainly have a stronger squad than Arsenal. Despite this, Spurs have a tendency to peter off towards the end of the season and manager Andre Villas-Boas will have to be careful to make sure history doesn’t repeat itself. Flying down the table, we find the relegation dogfight. After a drab game, QPR and Reading found themselves relegated. As I had predicted, Redknapp couldn’t do enough to keep QPR in the league, and both teams will find it hard to claim they deserve to stay up. However, there is one more spot available. Wigan, Aston Villa, Sunderland and Newcastle are the teams in danger of falling into the Championship. For Newcastle, it would represent a huge change in fortunehaving been placed 5th in the league last season. In my opinion, their quality of players should keep them up- just. Aston Villa have some of the Premier League’s most talented youngsters and their style this season has been admirable. Yet too often we’ve seen them draw or lose games they should have won. Despite this, I think the quality of players such as Benteke should keep them in the league. Sunderland look revived with new manager Paulo Di Canio. Ignoring the controversy, Di Canio looks like an inspired change and should keep the team in the league now that they are only one win away from the safety of 40 points. They’ve got good quality and it should be enough to keep them safe. So Wigan, once again prove us all wrong. Yet this season, I fear we may be saying goodbye to the Latics. You can’t discount them, since they do this every season, yet they have the worst squad and are currently the team subsiding in 18th position. Well, Wigan fans will hope I’m wrong and we’ll be able to see if I am by the time the next article comes out!!
STILL the cheapest advertising around- TEL. 606 540 408
29
y Satellite TV
sta Blanca
XTRA RENT A CAR
can be a confusing and daunting nd informative company is vital.
ow by husband and wife team ite has established itself as the TV installation with Ian having h in the UK and here in Spain for
king with Sky In Home Services d on the specialist heights team s VIP Team which caters for the teria the standard and quality of ely high! p his own business in the UK and ears before moving to Spain.
dad Quesada and covers most of
ompany has installed or individuals, coming only the highest tured dishes and this O monthly payments. suit everybody’s reGo Satellite offer exproven track record, many a satisfied cus-
Call
that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend that they get the
Mostly C’s – you are enjoying life in Spain and making the very best of it Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner andMostly B’s - you like it but it could be better, clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. Added to that is the fact that Go Satellite is a fully legal,you’ll wait and see what the future brings. Spanish registered business that The provides individual, comBEST pany and community installations with a free no obligationMostly A’s - there are many ways for the site survey. Go Satellite is going from strength to strength! They have now opened a new office in Calle Los Arcos No 7Spanish to improve, it’s so frustrating – it’s for: Ciudad Quesada. SO you can now come and meet us and we easier in my country will endeavour to help you with all of your TV queries. Here at Go Satellite, we use only Top Quality PortugueseMostly D’s – do you need a lift to the airdishes and Invacom LNB’s. Sky packages are also available: Full HD Package 20€ per month (which includes Sports andport..?
“It’s important to us that the customer fully understands what we do and is happy with the service we are providing” Paul
619 726
time with our customers to ensure best system for their needs”.
Service Value & Price!
Movies) internet connection required. If you do not have room or do not wish to have a big dish, give us a call we have a solution! At Go Satellite, we endeavour, to provide TV for everyone.
Do you agree…or disagree? Let us know your feelings about life as a ‘European’ and So if you are fed up of missing your favourite programs or you have lost yournext month we’ll see how you get on with TV signal and do not want to lose out anymore, then call Ian or Deborah onthe Expat Test! 965725670 or call into our office to find out more about Go Satellite. Alternatively check ourask@allabroad.es We 480 or email: xtrarentacar@xtra-car-hire.com
mpany has its advantages. e and get to know our customIt’s important to us that the ly understands what happy with we are W e
website: www.freetvspain.com
Legal and Registered - Over 30 years experience
DMF
PLUMBING & HEATING SOLUTIONS
Member
The ‘European’ Test
Benidorm to Almeria + 45km radius inland
BATHROOMS KITCHENS TILING AIR CONDITIONING BUILDING Tel. 965 071 220 - 666 907 456 www.dmfplumbing.com
MOUNTAIN VIEW
CAT HOTEL
Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes Centrally heated houses with large indiviudual runs. Love and care will be lavished during your cat’s stay My 29 years of experience in animal and veterinary care will give you peace of mind. STILL ONLY €6.00 per day to visit book/call: Carol or Paul 966 677 273 966195816 answerphone - we will call back Mobile 654 155 473
www.mountainviewcathotel.webs.com
all BORED? all BORED? all BORED? all BO
A BIG PAGE of
PUZZLE FUN!!
riddles
Across
1. You have a fox, a chicken and a sack of grain. You must cross a river with only one of them at a time. If you leave the fox with the chicken he will eat it; if you leave the chicken with the grain he will eat it. How can you get all three across safely? 2.U2 has a concert that starts in 17 minutes and they must all cross a bridge to get there. All four men begin on the same side of the bridge. You must help them across to the other side. It is night. There is one flashlight. A maximum of two people can cross at one time. Any party who crosses, either 1 or 2 people, must have the flashlight with them. The flashlight must be walked back and forth. It cannot be thrown and other tricks like that are not needed to solve the problem. The solution is simply a matter of allocating resources in a certain order. Each band member walks at a different speed. A pair must walk together at the rate of the slower man’s pace: Bono: 1 minute to cross Edge: 2 minutes to cross Adam: 5 minutes to cross Larry: 10 minutes to cross For example: if Bono and Larry walk across first, 10 minutes have elapsed when they get to the other side of the bridge. If Larry then returns with the flashlight, a total of 20 minutes have passed and you have failed the mission.
1. Wound remnant 5. Biology 101 specimen 10. Spill the beans 14. __ mater 15. St.. __ of Jerusalem 16. Napoleon’s prison, e.g. 17. Mary’s follower 18. Squads 19. Garfield’s foil 20. Cheap hams? 23. Wrath 24. Earlier in time than 25. Words of relief 28. John Fowles novel 33. Windbreaker 35. Eggs 36. Find a cheap place to park? 38. __ qua non 40. “Brown” co. 41. Simpleton 42. Beach bum’s wages? 47. Word on a wine bottle 48. More desert-like 49. Canine 51. Salon supply 52. Weeks in a Roman year 54. Chicken or small 55. Inexpensive footwear? 61. Proscribe 64. Spreads 65. It has a creamy filling 66. Highly excited 67. Quit 68. Iranian money 69. Dorothy’s doggy 70. Option on a form, perhaps 71. Musician’s submission
Down
1. Like Lot’s love later 2. Scratch 3. Shells and such 4. Thumper, for one 5. Most intense 6. Talking bird 7. Idle of “Monte Python” fame 8. Please in Potsdam 9. Horse that doesn’t win, place or show 10. Accounts of a lifetime 11. 60s drug 12. “The Greatest” 13. Line opener 21. Diaphragm 22. Supermodel Mero (aka Sable) 25. Musical recitative 26. Small community 27. Brief description 28. Israeli spy group 29. Bird sanctuary 30. Mary Poppins, for example 31. Spirit 32. Beatles’ record label 34. Strange 37. Keyes’ famous first words 39. Leno’s announcer, Hall 43. Mark for omission 44. South American river 45. One at rest 46. Covered walk or colonnade 50. Dress shoe 53. Cove 55. Kind of stick 56. Okie-dokie 57. Come second 58. Pennsylvania city 59. 20 quires 60. Stag 61. Container 62. It may be bruised 63. Kid
There’s an assumption people often make that keeps you from solving this. Two members cross the bridge each time, but neither one of the two the crossed need to return. Think about how that would be possible. If you’re still stuck, use objects to simulate their movement. Use whatever you have laying around - pens, paper, erasers - and move them back and forth. Good luck! 1.Answer: Take the chicken over first. Go back and bring the grain next, but instead of leaving the chicken with the grain, come back with the chicken. Leave the chicken on the first side and take the fox with you. Leave it on the other side with the grain. Finally, go back over and get the chicken and bring it over. 2.You get to figure this one out on your own. If you’re having a hard time, here’s a hint: There is a valid answer that doesn’t require tricks like throwing the flashlight or shining it backwards or having some other means of moving the flashlight.
It's a toughy! Our own contributorsIt's- EASY! experienced
Across
1. Carry with difficulty 6. Get out! 10. Chances 14. St. __ Girl (German beer) 15. Canal 16. Nota ___ 17. The A in E.A.P. 18. Buster, perhaps 19. Part of Veni, vidi, vici 20. Imitating Little Bo-Peep 23. Asp has one 24. __ roll 25. In and of __ 28. Lao __, father of Taoism 29. God in Gaul 31. Norma __ (Field movie) 32. Spend a night 35. Transportation sector 37. Abu __ 39. Imitating RinTinTin 42. Bury 43. Wing-like 44. “September ___”, Diamond song 45. Street equipment? 46. Fashion designer, Michael 48. Western hemisphere grp. 50. __-sack 52. United 53. What Bo-peep wants to hear 56. Imitating Mr. Ed 60. Disagreeable person 62. Hands-on item 63. Lavigne 64. Round up leaves 65. French 101 verb 66. Present or past, e.g. 67. It could be gray 68. Butters 69. Often used key
Down
1. “The final frontier” 2. Signs of sainthood 3. Humdingers 4. Panache 5. Piebald ponies 6. Medicinal shrub 7. Steep rugged cliff 8. Affected manners 9. The IT guy 10. Off-Broadway awards 11. Eagles hit 12. Incriminating evidence, perhaps 13. Baste 21. Deal with ashes 22. Classical work 26. It happens every birthday 27. Play possum 28. Moppet 29. Deli offering 30. Russian figure skater, Klimkin 32. Tail sound 33. Big toy maker 34. Edible thistle 36. Lab medium 38. Certain cuts 40. Annoying one 41. Swedish money 47. Creature often eaten raw 49. Open the window, maybe 51. Divided nation 52. Looks for bikinis 53. Ripped off 54. Seeds in a salad dressing 55. “The War of the Roses” author, Warren 57. A bit 58. “Cheers” regular 59. Hot spot 60. Feminists burned it, maybe 61. Kind of propeller
Word: ANOREXICS for expat info
31
SOLUTIONS:
32